How are your headaches post-op?

[topherlee80]

I had a C1/C2  laminectomy,  craniotomy, and duraplasty on 5/18 (this was a second surgery after 10 years, prior was only C1 laminectomy But they didn’t take much, and a “thinning of the dura).

My headaches post-op are really different than before. The headaches are pounding/splitting, radiating from base of skull to my temples. The pain seems to move based on how I turn my head, almost like there is a marble rolling around and the pain follows.

I had one follow up visit since being discharged due to pain not being controlled. They wanted me to continue Norco, and alternate between Valium and Soma. I’ve been adding some Prodrin which was given for migraines and that seems to take the most sever edge away.

Does anyone remember the type of headaches they had post-op, the severity, location, and duration?

Running a slight fever (99.6-100.8). Of course can’t see NS due to Memorial Day weekend and don’t really want to go to ER.

Thoughts?

[selmaS]

Hi..... I do recall having horrod headaches post op and was advised to stay on med schedule since once the pain comes it is hard to medicate after with effectiveness.....so to keep ahead stay on schedule.
Also, use heat once swelling is down to loosen up the tight muscles....and do exercises given to help keep them loose....heat again after exercise is done. My surgery was 9 years ago tomorrow, so I can not say for certain the location, only that I do recall being in misery once the meds from surgery wore off, It takes time, rest, rest and more rest ......to heal properly from this surgery. Doing too much too soon can cause set backs, so do allow time for your body to heal.
Keep tabs on the fever and follow up with your Dr should it change.

[selmaS]

Hi..... I do recall having horrod headaches post op and was advised to stay on med schedule since once the pain comes it is hard to medicate after with effectiveness.....so to keep ahead stay on schedule.
Also, use heat once swelling is down to loosen up the tight muscles....and do exercises given to help keep them loose....heat again after exercise is done. My surgery was 9 years ago tomorrow, so I can not say for certain the location, only that I do recall being in misery once the meds from surgery wore off, It takes time, rest, rest and more rest ......to heal properly from this surgery. Doing too much too soon can cause set backs, so do allow time for your body to heal.
Keep tabs on the fever and follow up with your Dr should it change.